Behind the Counter at a local Japanese Fried Tonkatsu Restaurant

[@PaolofromTOKYO]

paolofromtokyohotsauce.com - Get my Paolo fromTOKYO Premium Kaminari Hot Sauce here paolofrom.tokyo/merch - Support the channel and get the T-Shirt merch here paolofrom.tokyo/btc - Watch more Behind the Counter Videos

[@abbieconnie2012]

Is there a day of life coming out this month?

[@ropro9817]

What a great little shop. I would totally eat there multiple times a week too!

[@paulanthonybongcac804]

I love the hot sauce.. it makes me cry 😅 so hot

[@typerightseesight]

Beautiful place to live one's life. Haha.

[@theefool3950]

I bought two, when you first brought it up, and I'm about to buy more. So, good!

[@gimjoon]

Meeting people from previous behind the counter episodes and seeing that they’ve been busier because of it is so cool to see.

[@omnientertainment5852]

Free advertisement!

[@abbieconnie2012]

This is the second time this has happened 😊

[@hyewon9524]

Not to mention Asakusa is pretty much a tourist area so maybe it will have a tourist boom soon too

[@rektl2036]

@@hyewon9524already has a tourist boom with the low yen exchange rates

[@jcjuy]

paolofromtokyo universe 😆

[@KrystalsKash]

Her daughter is 30?! I thought she was about 30! This one felt super sweet and a real good feel with the owner and his customers. My mouth was watering as soon as he started frying that lovely pork 😋

[@this_Is_n0_One]

Yea i thought maybe she meant 30 months, that's a weird to count age but I thought it's ok, and then she said the daughter teaches English!!! WHAT!!??

[@MrKelewan]

I was taken aback myself when I heard that. As you stated... the Mother only looks around 30 herself.

[@GrayBlood1331]

No joke, I was thinking the same thing myself. she would be around 50 which in utterly insane.

[@Manley156]

More more like 60! average birth age thirty years ago was 28! She looks great@@GrayBlood1331

[@fredt1983]

Was she the Filipino server he mentioned? Glancing at some reviews of the place made me really *ANGRY* since they're borderline racist about the "GAIJIN SERVER!!" with really low reviews because of it...

[@ChickensAndGardening]

This is not just about food; it's a peek into old time Japanese culture. Captivating! I could have watched for another hour.

[@MinecraftManager]

Because the food isn’t actually that good

[@animejanai4657]

The prices sure have crept up though. 1900 yen and 1800 yen for their 1st and 2nd menu choices.

[@ChickensAndGardening]

@@animejanai4657 It seems like there are still a lot of very inexpensive and affordable restaurants in Japan, with excellent cuisine.

[@aaron30569]

Should have been a day in the life. I wanna see this dude party after work with all the regulars

[@ItsJamesandMark]

Love the Behind the Counter series... they're so rewatchable too!

[@julesmbc]

Yes! Was thinking the same thing:)

[@ciganyweaverandherperiwink6293]

Is it me, or are Western panko breakcrumbs NOTHING like the Japanese domestic ones?! I'd never bought a pack before here in England but last week I did; when I opened the pack I laughed out loud. I'll make the most of them as I hate waste but holy smokes, pffft, nothing like the panko you buy and eat in Japan. I wonder if it's just my perception or if anybody else agrees?

[@lebrinrajanlevi]

@@ciganyweaverandherperiwink6293 I agree 👍

[@ciganyweaverandherperiwink6293]

@@lebrinrajanlevi YES! Thank you for replying and confirming my suspicions! I knew I wasn't imagining it. 👍😆

[@SpilledTea754]

​@ciganyweaverandherperiwink6293 Panko has a bunch of different types breadcrumbs and even makers with different recipes. The ones you get in supermarkets in western countries are usually smaller and more dry than the ones seen in the video; the ones in the video are ones specialized for making tonkatsu/other Japanese dishes and they'd be hard to find outside of Japan/Asia.

[@thehsushoe]

I went to this restaurant after visiting Senso-ji. What I can say is that they are extremely friendly. The server has good English and it could be attributed to her daughter being and English teacher, who knows! She even made remarks about the owner having a slight limp and asking if I saw her in the video, such a funny person! You can really tell that the owner really gives it his all and gives a homelike atmosphere to the place. I got his premium set, and it was the best dang Tonkatsu set I've had in my life. I can't wait to go back!

[@SassafrasTee7366]

That’s awesome

[@sethusk]

I've never smiled and laughed so much just listening to people have a meal. What a great atmosphere! I'll definitely stop by some day when I finally visit Japan!

[@Omni0404]

11:52 I love that dude's reaction to the joke from the owner

[@allansevilla5640]

I really miss restaurants like these in Japan! The owner doesn't treat you like a customer but a part of his family! This owner for example reminds me of someone that we call "ottosan". He owns a ramen shop. He doesn't like bein called sacho or by his name, but he really likes to be called father by everybody. And he treats everyone like his own kids. At times he would also give advice to people seeking help. Such a very helpful and loving old man! He specially loves and welcomes foreigners to his resto and helps them , look for apartments, side jobs and sometimes even a matchmaker and gets you your significant other! Was able to meet couples that were matched by him. I was one of the lucky ones that he helped find a better arubaito or side job , was accepted because I was recommended by ottosan!

[@happycook6737]

How wonderful. Wishing many blessings for this "Otoosan". We need more caring people like him in the world.

[@Peavey311]

I loved this story, thanks for sharing! I imagine this ramen shop as the heart of the little community where everything and everyone go through at some point

[@allansevilla5640]

@@Peavey311 actually it is where everybody goes and meet! When you don't have anything to do, just go there and you'll have a smile on your face when you go home!

[@kaisuzuki2013]

That is someone perfect for an episode on this channel if you can would you get him featured here would love to see the man behind such a lovely story

[@allansevilla5640]

@@kaisuzuki2013 well I don't really know if Paolo would travel all the way to Gifu ken for that. And I'm not sure if ottosan is still alive. The last time I saw him was around 2004 and he was already around 75 yrs old then.....

[@0shas0]

Really enjoyed this video, the friendships were the highlight! Also, the waitress looks absolutely stunning. I was floored when she said her own daughter is 30 - I thought she must be 30! Great video, Paolo.

[@fortuneybiernas5778]

The Ate server is a Pinay

[@triciatime]

Immediately went to see if someone else was talking about this, floored as well when she said 30 wow

[@fortuneybiernas5778]

Ate must be 50ish. But in Japan they can work until 70ish. They eat and live healthy there.

[@whoami1820]

@@fortuneybiernas5778that’s my think too when she speak in nihonggo my 1st thought is she’s a pinay .

[@sunshineyellow707]

Same, I for sure thought she was in her 30s haha

[@haylz4000]

the man from a previous episode vocalising how your series has boosted business was so sweet! I love this series so much, I re-watch it all the time. It's my go to at the end of a long week with a glass of wine, it is just so wholesome and relaxing Edit: That Katsu sando looks amazing

[@alrensha7479]

Which video is that previous guy from?

[@anandasuriamoorthy6497]

​@alrensha7479 behind the counter of japanese chuka restaurant

[@Peavey311]

I LOVED that he caught these moments between friends ribbing each other and just having a good time. Their revelry was infectious :)

[@EonofAeon]

Agreed. That alone makes this such a far more appealing restaurant. Truly, a place I'd love to visit if I could! Its a shame so many today, especially Americans, are unable or unwilling to travel abroad. There's so many cool places like this waiting to be experienced....

[@kingjayded4752]

The owner teasing the regulars while you were interviewing them had me dying 😂

[@ytuseracct]

the broke guy lol

[@Chonky_boi265]

You can tell from the video that this place is more than just a restaurant. It's where visitors go and you'll be treated just like a family member. Great job, Paolo!

[@haydeemoreno20]

“he comes here to borrow money from me.” -Paolo: “oh, are you broke?” the dialogue afterwards within the friends. what a great sense of humor. this video definitely made my night. 😂

[@schen-m4u]

This was also the highlight for me, I find it really lighthearted and funny

[@vasiovasio]

And after this segment, the dude's face changes feeling Uncomfortable that the Whole Internet will see that he is broke... 😂😂😂

[@rickywinataa]

Awesome to see restaurants picking up more customers from your videos, absolute win for everyone 👍

[@patrioticacorn]

It was amazing to see how welcoming the shop was and how much humour is shared between the owner and the customers. ❤

[@Omni0404]

He might be the most charismatic man I've ever seen on this channel. I love that dude!

[@maxque2841]

The amount of joy this video brought me can not be understated. The people, the content, the quality, the editing… It’s just amazing. Thank you!

[@LaCarteRouge]

so cozy. i love how the regulars just know each other. the fact that they go so often probably means it's not that expensive either.

[@Eiensakura]

In Asia at least, both East and Southeast, eating out is an option because of the relatively affordable prices, not needing to tip is a big plus.

[@koromo-chan]

Seeing someone from the previous "A day in a life" really puts me a smile in my face and even recognized you from afar, that's amazing. Another highlight for me here is you being a Filipino, I've been watching you for a while so it's a big discovery that we're the same nationality. Keep up the good work, this series is truly amazing.

[@abbieconnie2012]

U Mean behind the counter?

[@ben-taobeneton3945]

Oh, man. As a waiter with 10 years of experience, I can tell that such places are the hidden gems. Man, finding such a place is a rare one. The vibe is just worth everything. 👌

[@PershoOoO]

Your videos make me cry of joy, thank you Paolo for reminding everyone how special is Japan. And showing us new places to visit when we visit Japan 😊

[@billmantie8778]

What an amazing atmosphere! Such a friendly restaurant and even friendlier people! You're so lucky to be doing this kind of thing, Paolo!

[@KawaiiArcadeMasters]

Was in Japan for 6 years. Wish we knew about this place. Thanks for the video. We will come here when we visit sometime.

[@p3p3ron]

Just in time for my dinner! Thank you for the behind the counter videos, one of my favorite YT series. Your insight and video quality is always so great!

[@flesh_blanket]

Amazing video! Love the part when the other shop owner recognized paolo haha, it truly shows how passionate you are and willing to give!

[@TiGGowich]

You could feel the welcoming atmosphere even through the recording... never seen anything like that... this place is awesome

[@yaminogame7805]

Doesn't seem like a super chatty guy, but still really kind. Thinks of others and his restaurant looks fun to go to. Next time I'm in Japan I hope it's still there to try. I love these local shops.

[@paulready8897]

The owner seems like a fun guy, when he introduced his son as the 3rd generation I thought he was retiring soon. His daughter is very beautiful.

[@umairshah1337]

This has to be my favourite episode ever. Loved the candid side of everyone, and friends enjoying each others company!

[@Boomdizzle99]

LOVE the atmosphere there. Even for asakusa which is overrun with tourists it retains a hometown feel and looks like many regulars continue to patronize the establishment. The Master there is really cool, straight forward, fun and friendly. The atmosphere REFLECTS him and I can see why he is popular. Def adding this place to my list. Ive been to asakusa twice now but places like this are hard to find

[@susanstaples6171]

You could make a million behind the counter videos and I will watch every one! What a treat to see behind the scenes

[@missliley2271]

Behind the counter really became my favorite series from you! It always feel so intimate and fun because it is literally what happened behind the counter. This restaurant is the real life example of the best friend dynamic between the shop owner and the customer which always depicted in the japanese drama and manga

[@ProtossHyrdalisk]

Man, I love Tonkatsu! I was in Japan in 2018-2019, and I miss the food so much! I really appreciate these interviews.

[@travisfinucane]

8:26 Bros day drinking like champs. Something about this tonkatsu boss makes me glad. He seems so casual and warm. This is my favorite behind the counter so far.

[@henrychew235]

Another very good one. It doesn't even feel like a typical tonkatsu restaurant, it has so much more variety of choices! It feels like a hybrid of shokudo and tonkatsu restaurant! Can definitely feel the community spirit in this video.

[@ライト兄弟-i5b]

カウンターの向こう側‥いろんな人間模様が垣間見れるから、大好き💕日本人で自分ほど東京ゼブラチャンネル見てる人いないと自負してる😂大変だと思うけど楽しいチャンネルこれからもお願い致します🤲

[@m06angel]

One of my fave in this BTC series. The owner seems quite genuinely nice, offering drinks and including you in the experience. He also seems pretty laid back and just fun to hang out with 😊

[@FelicianoCookie]

I really enjoyed this one, he looks super friendly and I love that he made sure Paolo was also taken care of. We need more people like him in this world ❤

[@BabyTater]

Im never happier then getting to see authentic Japanese food being cooked with passion ❤😊

[@thedannydarko]

Even among all the great restaurants you've showcased, something about this one comes off particularly special. The welcoming atmosphere is so infectious I found myself smiling. I'm blown away by the fact that the daughter is 30 when the mom didn't look older than 30 herself, and the daughter was so incredibly charming. Japan is on my bucket list and seeing this make me anxious to go.

[@cyberqueen7784]

I love restaurants with home-y atmospheres. It really makes the experience so much more exciting. Tonkatsu is truly one of my favorite Japanese dishes, and I also love katsudon.

[@G0lia7h_at]

I love how he is giving total chill dad vibes Casually giving you something to drink, taste the Panko, taking away the cup after your thank you with a posture and tone like "no need to thank you - thats totally normal by me" Definitly will try to come by when Im in Tokyo the next time!

[@WhitedeathSN]

The situation with the kids throws me back to my own college years. We have made friends with a local kebap shop owner. And he knew we were coming daily into his shop, so he always tried to keep a six seat table ready for us. But this restaurant vibe, where the costumers change seats on request, is next level!

[@heavymoe505]

We ate here in January. It was a delight! We also got a bottle of the special 50th anniversary shochu, which we just drank last week. Thanks for the memories!!!

[@curatedconnection]

I can't wait to be back in Tokyo and I'll definitely get an accomodation in Asakusa again. I love that community. So much gems in every alley.

[@LisaVar]

I just found this channel yesterday and I’ve been watching non stop . These videos are entertaining and addicting .

[@bonwatcher]

The regular customers were pretty funny! Glad to know you can bring extra business to these local places you cover, that's great to know you're helping your community like that.

[@MyrrdinWylltEmrys]

Thos has to be one of the fun episodes tye food the friendship the laughter. How well the restaurant, kitchen is so clean and neat. And the gentleman from an earlier episode when he said business has been busy thanks to Paolo, that was very exciting.

[@katarina1338]

Love love love this BTC episode! It's fun to see you and the shop owner tease and interact with his friends/customers. It's fun to watch others have fun and laugh together.

[@zky7643]

What a jovial and fun environment from the owner to the customers to the friend shopkeeper next door! I can see why the owner is so proud of his hometown 🥰

[@PaperCranesAndHaiku]

This is one of the funniest behind the counter episodes. I love their friendship 😄

[@team7us]

8:24 - I got a smile on my face, just knowing people know each other in a small neighborhood is so cool.

[@zennoodle]

I want to go here after watching this video. This place is like the Japanese version of the American TV show Cheers. Owner is light hearted and enjoys what he does. I also love that you guys walked past a previous restaurant video! What a fun video. Thanks again Paolo!

[@sonoftheredfox]

Paolo this was probably my favorite Behind the Counter yet. The food looked amazing but what made me laugh several times were the people. Quite possibly the coolest owner you've had on theee yet. Loved seeing how everyone made it a local hangout. It reminds me so much of a couple of places here close my home where everyone knows everyone, the regulars are treated like family, and I know if I go in, I'll be the youngest person by probably 30 years, but that's cool. Always glad to see your vids pop up.

[@bretth3224]

So glad your videos are helping people with their businesses. I even used some of your videos to choose places to eat while I was in Japan

[@KristalPonce]

I love these videos because they allow people to see off the beaten path and away from the chain stores.

[@ShaneBaxterful]

I hope Paolo has nothing but success and a happy, healthy family - this content is so wholesome and pure and I enjoy every single video you make! Great as always, thanks for the entertainment ❤

[@IndustrialGradeCopium]

The way he interacts with Paolo and shows his vibrant personality really shows the welcoming and friendly Asakusa!!

[@jm5661]

Paolo ! Seriously Your content is getting better every day . Your comitment and effort really shows . Congrats !!! * eager to 5 mill subs *

[@mercifulmoff]

Always love how these small businesses are more than content with what they have. It’s an honest living and they take pride and joy in their work, which can be very inspiring.

[@iTadakimAsu85]

8:19 the casual roast 😂 you know they're good friends

[@jonlambert1879]

argh the sound of the crispiness when the knife cuts so jealous looks so good

[@knightmageEXP]

I just can't get enough of these behind the counter, day in life, and made in japan series! I just keep coming back to listen and rewatch these videos as a comfy time series and just get a warm relaxed vibe after these videos! Thank you Paolo for all your hard work on these videos and wish you all the best on your future journey! ^v^

[@jollygoodgordon5580]

these tiny restaurants are so cozy and nice,,, must be so nice to eat there ans have nice company with u

[@thevectorchef]

That place is definitely a restaurant I want to eat at in Japan. The fact that he got you a drink was very impressive. Keep up the great work !

[@Tych333]

One of your best episodes, loved meeting the crew of friends meeting several times a week

[@edho931]

Dude Im not gonna lie to you, these behind the counter series have really been my comfort videos since the beginning n always check paolo’s channel every single week in my day off thanks paolo n team n fams ✨

[@PulangPunla]

Kinda nice to see na the restaurant owner is also proud to have a Pinoy server as his crew. Sabi ko na nga ba, Paolo is Filipino! More power to your channel, sir! Thanks for keeping us entertained and informed about life in Japan.

[@RexCapulet]

What a vibe. I could easily settle in to a great neighborhood for the rest of my life. Love that people have that privilege.

[@preciousmonfleury2433]

I really love your videos you should do a day in the life of a Japanese animal veterinarian

[@ingchinprasert5264]

Everyone seems so sweet in this little shop. That message from the daughter at the end too. So wholesome!

[@mazzarouni5608]

What a great guy, a great business with great food.

[@IanFarquharson2]

Excellent episode. Like the fact he nips round the corner for a fry up and coffee before all the breakfast beer customers arrive.

[@RedPilledJetiKnight]

Love your videos, Paolo. It’s awesome how you bring a taste and the culture of Japan 🇯🇵 in your videos. I’ve been watching your content for almost 3yrs now. Traveling to Japan is most definitely on my bucket list of places to travel too. You make it easier for us Americans that don’t have the resources yet to see the fun and amazing things we can do out and the thing of what not to do lol. God bless and keep out the good work. Much love from Pennsylvania.

[@yingshelly7960]

I love PA ❤😂

[@Scottsgamerlounge]

Whenever I go to Japan, I hope to visit a few of these places that Pablo has done videos with. The owners always seem so sweet and hard working. I’d love to support them :)

[@b.a.e-beforeanythingelse3673]

This is one of the coolest "behind the counter" of Paolo. I love the interaction and it looks really fun. When Paolo said he is a Filipino was the cutest. I just love the whole thing!

[@dreadwing01]

His positive energy is awesome.

[@QuickDotaClips]

Love from the Philippines 🇵🇭❤️

[@FoxArtStudios]

Wow the friendly energy there just seems so amazing to have experienced. Loved to see the inside day to day of this cute shop!!

[@superfriendlyalpaca]

This video was soo fun and the owner has so much personality and energy 😂❤ I love the cameo of the Japanese Chinese restaurant! Makes you get a sense of the friendships that these local businesses in the neighbourhood form 😊

[@moccisimo]

I love the owner’s big, funny personality and you can tell he loves what he does. His daughter is gorgeous too, just a lovely family all around ❤

[@sirskidney7998]

Oh Paolo, you’ve nailed it once again! What a cracking find for your Day in the Life series. As others have already said, the owner and the customers are like family and that tonkatsu looks delicious! Many thanks for yet another great video and great editing as usual, Maiko. 🙏

[@talldarkrandom3170]

Seems like the best place to eat. A place full of laughter and good food is hard to beat

[@harvestmoon_autumnsky]

These videos never disappoint! Great work Paolo.

[@mauharley]

Love the owner and his friends. The restaurant has a great vibe.

[@jenniferclaire5455]

It looks delicious! They clients are very happy with the food. Wish him and his restaurant the best ❤

[@mati888100]

This is the friendliest restaurant owner I've ever seen. He just gives off happy vibes everywhere. Wish I could dine there but if I ate pork my dad would beat me up

[@1peruvianguy]

great video as always Paolo 👏🇯🇵

[@PaolofromTOKYO]

Thank you again

[@ideasandgoodvibes1234]

I watched all your videos and only now I just found out your a Filipino! nice!! keep it up!

[@jacqueswang3722]

Bro wtf, the store’s vibes are immaculate

[@allouthd3866]

This was maybe one of the more "simple" behind the counter" but it showed so much life at the same time. Was really good! Great Work!

[@frednierra]

Will never get tired of this series. Keep ‘em coming Paolo. More power!

[@KennyTarnished]

It made me so happy that paolo has increased business at other places. And that the owners are friends!!!

[@davidw2739]

"They've been good friends for a long time, since they were kids!" "Your face is bloated, man." You didn't have to tell us they were old friends with that kind of banter. :D

[@Macho_Fantastico]

I love this series, seeing the people behind the counter is an absolute joy.

[@hyewon9524]

It's my dream to work like this making long time friends while running a business nad just drinking whenever someone offered. I like the atmosphere too and the food looks really good. I would change my current crappy government job with this any day. The owner is very charismatic too. Behind the counter and a day in the life is practically my breakfast accompaniment every saturday morning

[@hardgoremick2474]

your videos always motivate me to be more productive like them thank you for this!

[@esumiwa5583]

Everyone just seems happier in these videos, here in the US..everyone seems miserable at their jobs, shopping, walking around.

[@elissam7142]

I LOVE A DOUBLE VIDEO DROP DAY!! ❤❤ Thanks Paolo!